The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) urges all drivers to use extreme caution when traveling through work zones.
The urgency of the message follows a recent rise in work zone crashes. In 2023, 15 DelDOT vehicles were struck by motorists. As of July 22, 2024, that figure is already over double last year’s with 37 vehicles struck by motorists, 6 involving injuries.
“This is not an acceptable number,” said Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski. “We need drivers to stay alert especially while traveling through work zones, put their phones down, not partake in any distracting behaviors while behind the wheel, and obey the posted speed limit. Cones, signs, and message boards are deployed for everyone’s safety. When you see them, it’s a cue to drive more cautiously. Not only do our employees’ lives depend on it, but failure to do so puts everybody’s life at risk.”
Although highway workers are often among the victims of work zone crashes, drivers need to understand that four out of five victims of these crashes are drivers or their passengers. Generally, crashes occur when drivers speed through a work zone or do not pay attention to the changing road conditions and run into other vehicles, highway equipment, and safety barriers, or drive off the roadway completely. In a typical five-day work week, an average of seven motorists and one worker are killed nationwide. The primary causes of work zone crashes are following too closely and inattentive driving.
To further combat issues on Delaware roadways, DelDOT along with the Delaware State Police (DSP) recently activated the Electronic Speed Safety Program (ESSP) in the I-95/Route 896 construction zone in Newark. It will last until the end of the project. The first 21 days of the program will be a warning period. Beginning July 30, 2024, registered vehicle owners receiving a first offense will receive a base violation of $20.00, and an additional amount is added for each mile per hour over the posted work zone speed limit in accordance with Del. C. §4169(c).
Want to help make our roadways safer? Become a HERO towards zero deaths and sign the Be Del-AWARE safety pledge at BeDelAWARE.deldot.gov.
Help to reach the goal of zero fatalities on Delaware roads and all roads across the nation.
Educate people of all ages, races, and demographics on the importance of driver awareness and taking responsibility for all modes of transportation.
Reinforce the importance of being an aware and responsible commuter and the consequences of when you are not.
Organize programs to create a community promoting safety throughout the state and ultimately the nation.